Feed, water, groom, bathe, exercise, or otherwise care for pets and other nonfarm animals, such as dogs, cats, ornamental fish or birds, zoo animals, and mice. Work in settings such as kennels, animal shelters, zoos, circuses, and aquariums. May keep records of feedings, treatments, and animals received or discharged. May clean, disinfect, and repair cages, pens, or fish tanks.

Experience: Little or no previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, a person can become a waiter or waitress even if he/she has never worked before.

Education: Some of these occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.

Animal care and service workers provide care for animals. They feed, groom, bathe, and exercise pets and other nonfarm animals. Job tasks vary by position and place of work.

Animal care and service workers are employed in a variety of settings, including kennels, zoos, stables, animal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics, and aquariums. Some of the work may be physically or emotionally demanding, and the rate of work-related injuries and illnesses is higher than the national average.

Most animal care and service workers have a high school diploma and learn the occupation on the job. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have experience working with animals.

The median annual wage for animal care and service workers was $21,260 in May 2015.

Employment of animal care and service workers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth coupled with high job turnover should result in very good job opportunities for jobseekers.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for animal care and service workers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of animal care and service workers with similar occupations.

Learn more about animal care and service workers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.